Dhiraagu 2023 Calendar - #InspiredConnections Dedicates the Month of January to Sidey the Shark

Fueling his love for the underwater world and its gentle creatures, Mohamed Siraj Ahmed –more commonly known as Sidey the Shark – spends more time below the surface than on the white-topped isles of the Maldives. His profound connection with marine biodiversity is exactly what inspired him to incept ‘Ocean Fanatics’, a sustainability-focused diving and watersports brand based in Baa Atoll.

A visionary advocate for the natural reservoirs of the Maldives, Sidey commits his time to tailor unforgettable experiences for guests, making them fall in love with the underwater realm. His other passion lies in creating awareness about the environmental threats faced by the Maldives with particular emphasis given to the delicate marine ecosystems and marine life that habituate such areas.

He usually operates in the northern region of Baa Atoll, where the pristine Hanifaru Bay lies in the midst of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Hanifaru Bay is a world-renowned site, distinguished for the congregation of hundreds of manta rays, grey sharks and ocean giants, whale sharks as they amass to feed on the plankton-rich waters.

Given his love for the ocean and his efforts to preserve the vulnerable ecosystems there, Sidey the Shark has made his way to the Dhiraagu 2023 Calendar #InspiredConnections, which follows the stories of 12 unique individuals under four major themes: Environment, Language, Craftsmanship and Music. January is dedicated to the eco-conscious pioneer, Sidey the Shark. To follow his story further, users can simply scan the Snapchat code on the calendar and glimpse into his work and talents through an enchanting AR illustration with sound effects.